Commenting on today’s announcement by Ofcom that the UK now has the highest take-up and coverage of superfast broadband among leading EU economies, Ernest Doku, telecoms expert at Uswitch.com, says: “It’s heartening to see the UK’s broadband progress coming out so strongly when pitted against other leading EU nations, and also very encouraging to note that superfast broadband is now available to almost three quarters of the UK. However, Ofcom’s research does also reveal that less than 10% of the population is actually using it.
“There seems to be a worrying lack of awareness concerning superfast broadband. Our own research showed that only a quarter (25%) of consumers were aware they could receive it in their area. Price also looks to remain a major barrier, with almost half (48%) of those consulted who didn’t have super-fast broadband, citing it as being too costly.
“If people don’t actually use fibre broadband because they think it’s too expensive, or they don’t know they can get it, then what’s the point? Boosting uptake will be heavily dependent on both affordability and increased awareness of those costs, as much as availability.
“Using real-world examples can help relay the potential benefits of spending more on fibre – such as informing customers that blazing fast internet can hugely improve browsing, streaming and on-demand services for multiple users on a single connection.
“It’s more essential than ever that people compare deals across the entire broadband market, as significant savings can be made if people shop around and find the best deals for their individual download and speed requirements.”
Maja Hauke
Phone: 0207 148 4663
Email: maja.hauke@uswitch.com
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